What authority do law enforcement officers from another state have when pursuing a suspect in Kentucky?

In Kentucky, law enforcement officers from another state generally have limited authority when it comes to making arrests. Specifically, they have the right to arrest a suspect only if a felony has occurred, adhering to the principle of extradition and interstate cooperation in law enforcement. This means they cannot arrest individuals solely for misdemeanors or minor violations in Kentucky; their authority is reserved for more serious crimes.

This aligns with the legal framework where out-of-state officers are recognized as having some enforcement capabilities, but these are typically restricted to ensuring that they are acting within the bounds of significant legal breaches such as felonies. Understanding this limitation is essential for both law enforcement personnel and civilians, as it clarifies the extent of authority that officers possess when they are outside of their home jurisdiction.